When it comes to MLB legends, specifically for the Yankees fans, Derek Jeter and Alex Rodriguez are often the obvious choices. While A-Rod won the World Series only once, former Yankees captain Jeter claimed the title a staggering five times. However, both players had their own unique selling points (USPs) while playing baseball. Although both played the shortstop position, A-Rod also served as a designated hitter for the Bronx Bombers.

Furthermore, showcasing the top athletes’ rankings based on their performance and achievements, ESPN released their data on July 18, 2024. While some athletes like Lionel Messi and Michael Phelps secured top positions, the rankings of certain MLB stars did not sit well with fans. In particular, A-Rod and Jeter’s rankings sparked outrage among MLB enthusiasts online.

Derek Jeter vs. Alex Rodriguez: A glance at ESPN’s top athletes’ list

Over the years, ESPN has compiled top athletes lists based on players’ overall performances. In the battle of these two MLB greats, Alex Rodriguez edged out Jeter on the athlete list. As per ESPN, since January 1, 2000, A-Rod has been named MVP three times—in 2003, 2005, and 2007. He has also participated in the All-Star event 11 times, won seven Silver Slugger awards, and was a 2009 World Series champion.

Moreover, in terms of his home run-hitting abilities, he was a beast in that era. He hit 548 homers, the second most since the year 2000. Also, while playing the shortstop position, Rodriguez excelled. Typically, this crucial position in baseball is reserved for skillful fielders who are not strong hitters. However, A-Rod, being a different breed, could hit the ball long distances. He hit 696 home runs throughout his career and maintained an impressive .295 all-season average. Despite all his achievements and records, he was one of those unlucky players who didn’t get the chance to be inducted into the Hall of Fame.

 Furthermore, while A-Rod ranked number 43 on the ESPN top athlete rankings, Derek Jeter found himself at the 53rd spot. Speaking of his major achievements, Jeter won the World Series five times with the Yankees. In terms of hits, he recorded 2,658, ranking fifth since 2000. In 2020, Jeter was also inducted into the prestigious MLB Hall of Fame.

Even more, very few players have had as many iconic moments as Jeter. Whether it was the Jeffrey Maier home run, the dive, Mr. November, or the walk-off single in his final game, the Yankees legend provided fans with plenty of moments to cherish. However, despite the admiration from individual Jeter and Rodriguez fans, ESPN’s ranking has divided the two fanbases.

Fans are fuming over Derek Jeter placed below Rodriguez in ESPN’s ranking

Undoubtedly, MLB fans are passionate. Whether it is standing by their team or players, they are always there to lend their support. Especially when it comes to discussions about Jeter, Rodriguez, and other MLB stars, social media is bound to explode. Reacting to Derek Jeter being ranked below A-Rod, a fan said, “Whoever makin da top 100 athletes list on espn must’ve been born in 2009 cuz how is Lisa Leslie and Derek Jeter, hall of famer not in da top 25 if not top 10.” Indeed, stats can be a debatable topic, but with Derek Jeter inducted into the Hall of Fame, this fan believes he should have been placed in the top 25 rankings.

While one fan supported Derek Jeter, another ‘Shotime’ Ohtani fan commented: “DEREK JETER HIGHER THAN OHTANI THERE IS NO WAY.” Speaking of the present-date superstar in MLB, Shohei Ohtani, he has certainly proven his worth after signing a $700 million deal with the Dodgers. From hitting a home run in the All-Star game to smashing 200 homers at Comerica Park, he has been exceptional. However, despite Ohtani’s achievements, comparing him with Jeter might open up a new debate among fans.

“Bonds over Mookie and Derek is crazy to me too,” another fan mentioned, expressing his disagreement with Barry Bonds’ ranking. Derek Jeter and Barry Bonds, both had their own skills, but their career stats show that Bonds has the upper hand. He hit a massive 762 homers and had 1,996 RBIs, which justifies his place on ESPN’s top athlete list.

Continuing the debate between the two Yankees legends, a user interestingly wrote, “Arod Above Jeter?” It is no surprise that both A-Rod and Jeter are Yankees legends. However, comparing their achievements beyond stats, Jeter appears to have the edge. He won five World Series titles, and as mentioned, being a Hall of Famer while not being ranked ahead of Rodriguez might have concerned fans.

“Mookie should be over, Jeter. An MVP to Jeter not having one,” expressed another fan. Indeed, Jeter never won an MVP tag in his entire career. The closest he came was in 1998 when he finished in third place. In contrast, Mookie Betts won the MVP in 2018. Besides, Betts became the first player in MLB history to win the Silver Slugger, Gold Glove Award, and the World Series title all in the same year.

Ultimately, passionate fans love their players and might go to any extent to support them. Similarly, choosing between Derek Jeter and Alex Rodriguez is a tough job. Both are MLB legends who spent years of hard work helping the Yankees win the World Series in their era. Lastly, as our readers, let us know your favorite in the comments below: A-Rod or the former Yankees captain.